Journal Article > Commentary

Experienced diagnosticians rely on heuristics—rules of thumb—to recognize clinical patterns and establish diagnoses efficiently. However, this process can lead to diagnostic error, as numerous cognitive biases can adversely affect the diagnostic reasoning process. This two-part series reviews the psychological origins of cognitive biases, examines the theoretical basis behind "debiasing" approaches (strategies for averting specific cognitive biases), and proposes a framework for preventing diagnostic errors through educational and systems-based approaches. Two of the most common cognitive biases, premature closure (diagnosing a patient on the basis of preliminary or incomplete information) and anchoring (failing to reconsider a provisional diagnosis in the face of conflicting information) are vividly illustrated in an AHRQ WebM&M commentary. Dr. Pat Croskerry, the lead author of these articles, was interviewed by AHRQ WebM&M in 2010.

Journal Article > Commentary

This commentary spotlights the importance of learning about cognitive science to understand and improve diagnostic reasoning in order to prevent errors. Underscoring limits of the Hippocratic Oath, the authors describe the ethical responsibility of individuals and organizations to augment clinical decision-making, judgment, and critical thinking skills as an integral component of professionalism.

Meeting/Conference > Government Resource

Rockville, MD; Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: September 28, 2016.

Research is increasingly focusing on diagnostic errors and strategies to reduce them. This conference explored the science behind diagnosis and discuss the research, tactics, and tools needed to enhance diagnostic performance.